Markets abuzz with activity ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr

Srinagar, Jul 17: Markets across Kashmir including Srinagar were abuzz with activities as people came out in large numbers to shop for Eid-ul-Fitr likely to be celebrated tomorrow on the conclusion of the month of Ramzan.

Meat and chicken sellers, bakeries, confectioneries and toy shops witnessed heavy rush of customers as Muslims started preparing for the festival.

Shopping outlets dealing with clothing including kids-wear, perfumes and footwear also saw brisk sales from early in the morning.

The roadside vendors have also set up stalls in Lal Chowk and adjoining areas selling all kinds of merchandise. Eid rush picked up from early this week, prompting authorities to take several measures to streamline traffic and check profiteering.

However, the people complained of exorbitant rates especially by meat sellers who charged the customers Rs 400 per kg since yesterday against the government sanctioned Rs 310 per kg.

Similarly, the poultry dealers charged Rs 140 per kg against the government rate of Rs 115. The shoppers also accused vegetable sellers of indulging in unethical price hike and castigated the administration for alleged failure to check the hoarding. Serpentine queues were witnessed at ATM outlets and banks.

Like last year, the traffic department has barred the entry of heavy passenger vehicles into the commercial hub of Lal Chowk as it leads to traffic jams.

"No vehicular traffic shall be allowed to ply on Residency road from Radio Kashmir to Hari Singh High street on one side and along MA road from SRTC crossing to Jehangir Chowk on the other side, except emergency and on-duty vehicles," a traffic police officer said.

He said the restrictions shall remain in force till Eid prayers.

PTI